Photo by Steve Rice, Star Tribune

Shortly after 10 a.m., as smoke from grilled hot dogs and burgers began to waft across the plaza, fans had already jammed the team's gift shop.

Among them was Adam Dewenter, sporting a new Twins cap ($39) and a ticket lanyard. "I've been waiting for this for 25 years and can't wait to get inside," said Dewenter, who flew in from his home in Phoenix.

Fellow Bemidji native Dustin Gangelhoff flew in from Omaha. "We made a pact to be here today the day they broke ground," Dewenter said. "The tickets were expensive, but this is priceless."

"And no whining about a little rain," Gangelhoff said.